> This is the Markdown of a Backed Help Centre page, https://admin.backed.giving/help/applicant/references.md. Every page is listed at https://admin.backed.giving/help/llms.txt.

> This page uses Backed's default terms, such as Funding Round and Application Template. An organisation may rename them, so read each as your organisation's own term if you've renamed it.

Some application forms ask for referees: people who answer a short form about you, or an
organisation that agrees to auspice your application. You name them on the form, and each is
emailed a link to answer without an account.

## Ask a referee

The question shows how many references are complete, such as `0 of 2 references complete`.

1. Under `Ask a referee`, enter the `Referee name` and `Referee email`.
2. Select `Send request`. The referee is emailed a link straight away.

You can't name yourself, or anyone else in your organisation. Once every referee the question asks
for has been asked, the form says so.

## Follow each request

Each referee shows their name, email, status and dates:

- `Requested` or `Opened` — the link is live. `Resend` emails the same link again, at most once an
  hour. `Replace referee` stops that link and asks someone else.
- `Completed` (or `Accepted` for an auspice acceptance) — the reference is in. If the organisation
  lets applicants read references, `View reference` opens it.
- `Declined` or `Expired` — `Replace referee` asks someone else.

You're emailed when a referee completes or declines.

## When you can submit

If the question is required before submit, `Submit` stays unavailable until enough references are
complete, and says how many are in. If an auspice organisation declines, you can't submit until
another accepts. Otherwise you can submit first; references can still arrive until each link
expires, and `Resend` still works.

## For referees: answering a request

Open the link in the email. You don't need an account.

- The page shows who asked, the grant they are applying to, and when the link expires.
- Fill in the form. Your answers save as you go.
- Select `Submit reference` (or `Accept` for an auspice acceptance) when you're done.
- Or select `Decline` and give a reason. The organisation sees your reason.

After you submit or decline, the link no longer opens the form. If the organisation reopens your
reference, you're emailed a new link. A link that has expired or been replaced shows
`This link is no longer valid`; ask the person who sent it for a new one.

## See also

- [Applying for a grant](applying-for-a-grant.md)
- [After you submit](after-you-submit.md)